The Hamas offensive against Israel: hundreds of rockets fired, infiltrations and ground fighting. A look back at the burning news that divides the Middle East.
Since Saturday morning, the Gaza Strip has been the scene of a major offensive led by the Islamist movement Hamas. Hundreds of rockets were launched towards Israel, while armed men infiltrated Israeli territory. Israeli troops are engaged in ground fighting with these fighters in several locations around the Gaza Strip.
This new escalation of violence quickly captured the attention of the international community. The reactions were not long in coming. The military adviser to Iran’s supreme leader welcomed the Hamas offensive, calling it a “proud operation.” This statement highlights the close ties between Hamas and Iran, which actively supports the movement.
The European Union, for its part, denounced the taking of civilians hostage, describing this action as a violation of international law. She called for their immediate release. Videos released by Hamas’ military wing show men in civilian clothes being detained by armed men with blurred faces, claiming they are “enemies” captured during the offensive.
The situation on the ground is particularly worrying. Israeli emergency services said twenty-two people have been shot and killed since the offensive began, with hundreds injured. Images of war and chaos are circulating on social media, showing panicked civilians and burning vehicles.
Faced with this escalation of violence, voices were raised to condemn Hamas’ terrorist attacks. Emmanuel Macron, French President, strongly condemned the attacks and expressed solidarity with the victims and their loved ones. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called on all parties to act reasonably and avoid an escalation of violence.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that “we are at war” and warned that Hamas would pay an unprecedented price for the offensive. Tensions are at their peak and the situation is extremely volatile.
This escalation of violence between Hamas and Israel once again highlights the complexity of the situation in the Middle East. Political, religious and territorial issues are closely intertwined, making the resolution of this conflict difficult.
It is imperative to closely monitor developments and hope that action will be taken to put an end to this deadly violence. Dialogue and the search for peaceful solutions are more necessary than ever to bring stability to the region.